Question NW1088 to the Minister of Telecommunications and Postal Services
25 April 2016 - NW1088
Mackenzie, Mr C to ask the Minister of Telecommunications and Postal Services
(a) What are the reasons for the closure of the SA Post Office branch in Bloubergrant, postal code 7443 and (b) were any residents of the Bloubergrant consulted before the branch was closed; (2) Have residents of the specified area been provided with any alternative postal service; if not, why not; if so, what are these alternatives?
Reply:
I have been informed by SAPO as follows:
1. (a) The Bloubergrant Post Office was closed due to non-payment of rental. SAPO could not make regular rental payments to the landlord on time due to SAPO cash flow challenges. SAPO was subsequently given notice by the landlord to vacate the premises by 8 April 2016.
(b) In view of the fact that the eviction was sudden and unexpected, no prior consultations could take place with the residents, but notices of the closure were placed at the Post Office and around the post boxes area.
2. The residents have been informed that the Table View Post Office which is situated 2.8km from Bloubergrant could be used as an alternative service point. The post boxes will, however, remain at the old site for the convenience of residents.